It’s not uncommon for us as businesswomen to multi-task, get overwhelmed and stressed and of course this in and of itself causes procrastination. As a matter of fact, experts say that more than 90% of all people procrastinate at some time or another. However, as a businesswoman seeking success, it’s important to eliminate habits that can get in your way of building a successful business.
Let’s Define Procrastination
Procrastination means to put off or delay something. For most business women, It’s often caused because of feeling overwhelmed and not having clarity of the end in mind. It can be a deeply ingrained habit that can hinder your professional progress.Procrastination Doesn’t Mean You’re Lazy
Don’t get the word procrastination confused with being lazy. Laziness is when you choose to completely do nothing without care or concern, you really don’t even give the tasks any thought.It’s Time to Break the Cycle
As a businesswoman, breaking the procrastination cycle is crucial for achieving your goals and maintaining productivity. While it won't happen overnight, implementing strategic changes in your daily routine can help you overcome this challenge. By adopting a proactive approach and embracing effective strategies, you can transform your work habits and enhance your efficiency.Effective Strategies to Eliminate Procrastination:
- Get structured and focused. Keep in mind that tasks support your goals. So make sure you’re clear on the goals the task is supporting. This way, you’re more encouraged to get it done when you have clarity.
- Be careful with how you phrase self-talk. Replace "need to" or "have to" with "I’m excited about" or “I choose to” to feel more empowered and in control.
- Schedule your tasks and commit. Simply creating a to-do list is not enough. You must commit to your tasks by scheduling
- Delegate tasks when possible. Keep in mind that you don’t have to do everything by yourself. As a leader, it’s important to work on your business and not always in your business as the laborer. Review recurring tasks that can be assigned to a virtual assistant or member of your team.
- Work in 20-minute increments. This will help you to look forward to 5 minute breaks in between and oftentimes, the tension will release and you’ll have the desire to keep on working on the task at hand.
- Reward Yourself. Treat yourself to something enjoyable, like a dessert, your favorite smoothie/beverage, a piece of chocolate or something fun.
- Seek Accountability. Consider a coach that will hold you accountable and help you to get better focused. You can also ask a business associate to be your accountability partner. If you go this route, make sure you both agree to meet weekly for no more than 15 to 20 minutes.
- Take action on simple tasks immediately. Address simple tasks immediately as they arise to prevent overwhelming backlogs. For example, if you need to email a client a quick note or reminder, don't put the task on your to-do list, simply pull up the email and get it done in 3 to 5 minutes.
- Beware of Distractions. Turn off email notifications and avoid social media during work hours.
Breaking the habit of procrastination requires commitment and embracing being a leader in your business. It’s okay to delegate and build a support team to help you get things done. As a matter of fact, you’ll grow your business faster doing it this way.
Review the above strategies a few times and then decide how you will start implementing them. If you find yourself procrastinating too often, consider getting a coach to help you get on track.
Review the above strategies a few times and then decide how you will start implementing them. If you find yourself procrastinating too often, consider getting a coach to help you get on track.
ABOUT THE WRITER
Trina Newby (a.k.a. Queen Trina) is a Business Success Coach, Founder of Women About Biz, blog writer and host of the Successful Woman Radio Show. Through her Crown Club, she helps helped women to experience success in accomplishing their business goals and generate the income they desire. Click here for a FREE Coaching Session to learn ways you can start your online business.